He is survived by his oldest daughter, Michelle (Paul), his son, Neal (Kim), and his youngest daughter, Wendy (Gene), as well as his grandchildren, Matt (Katie), Danielle, Neal, Bront, Reid, Kaeli, Austen, and Sarah, and great-granddaughter, Haven. He was fired during the 1986 season after a 23-33 start. The best thing about him is that hes such a good kid, Frey said of his slugger. He attended Oregon State University and served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Injuries suffered during the course of his career sapped his arm strength and his speed, though his hitting stayed pretty consistent. James graduated McCallum High School in 1956 where he played football, ran in the Texas Relays, participated in choir, served as a class officer, among other activities. Read Full Obituary. I am so saddened to hear about the loss of Jim. It may take up to 1 hour for your comment to appear on the website, Austin lost an original on August 17, 2022 with the passing of James Clifford Frey. Jim was born on September 26, 1951 in Calgary, Alberta. Just win. The Cubs pitching staff was hammered by injuries in 1985, and the team fell to a 77-84 record. A couple weeks later, he chose his old high school friend, Zimmer. Jim loved to read, and had a great appreciation for art of all forms, which he collected from the many places he visited. Frey died Sunday at his home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, according to the Atlantic League's Somerset Patriots, the minor league team he had been affiliated with since its launch in 1998. Obituary: Matt Keough (1955-2020) RIP Baseball, Obituary: Bob Sebra (1961-2020) RIP Baseball, Obituary: Lorenzo Chico Fernandez (1939-2020) RIP Baseball, 2020 was as bad as you thought it was RIP Baseball, Obituary: Billy DeMars (1925-2020) RIP Baseball, Grave Story: Dan Quisenberry (1953-1998) RIP Baseball, Obituary: Bruce Sutter (1953-2022) RIP Baseball. It's because of guys like Jim that I can say I was able to retire 28yrs later as a Leader lineman!! No one would ever accuse Jim of being shy about sharing what he believed to be right, just or correct. Frey didnt spend much time talking with his players; he just expected them to do the jobs they were given. Read Full Obituary. James Allen Frey passed away on Friday, January 31, 2020 at the age of 87. Frey turned down the choice of manager or general manager of the Minnesota Twins in favor of working as a radio commentator with the Cubs. He even discovered some power and hit 16 homers in 1960 with Rochester and in 1962 with Buffalo. But Sutcliffe struggled in his Game Five loss, so its questionable that he would have been more effective with one fewer day of rest. Under Freys guidance, the Royals won 97 games to win the AL West. RIP to Jim Frey, a manager who led two teams into the postseason and was named Manager of the Year for breaking the Cubs long postseason dry spell. He enjoyed his time on his farm in the hill country with bird feeders and wildlife. Frey managed in the big leagues for five seasons, compiling a 323-287 record. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. Well, you know Im still getting paid [by the Cubs], dont you? Frey said. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of James E. Frey to pay them a last tribute. Your email address will not be published. James served in the US Army and Army reserve until being honorably discharged in 1964. Frey was fired the following season after the Royals got off to a 10-10 start during the second half of the strike-marred season. He scouted and managed in the minor leagues for Baltimore and coached for the Orioles under manager Earl Weaver from 1970-79. James A. Frey Obituary It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of James A. Frey of Boscobel, Wisconsin, who passed away on October 8, 2022, at the age of 67, leaving to mourn family and friends. She was a kind, caring . James A. Frey of Soldotna, Alaska, died peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 2, 2018, at a friend's home in Salem, Oregon. Freys playing career started auspiciously enough with the Paducah Chiefs of the Mississippi-Ohio Valley League. I've often felt and considered Jim not only a great neighbor but also a best friend. Restaurants that opened (or closed) in February: A surprise in Middletown, 'Go find your own': Bengals' Duke Tobin on Higgins trade rumors, Bengals offer latest update on Joe Burrow contract negotiations, Tornado damage a total loss for some Butler County homes, What's the best beer in Cincy? MEMORIES & CONDOLENCES. Frey hit in front of Aaron, so he had a great opportunity to view his swing. Jim was born in Cincinnati on March 25th,1940 and attended Hughes High School. When asked the secret to their 55 year marriage, his answer was simple: projects! I knew Jim from old CEI days at east 24 service ctr. I will.miss him so . Our sincere condolences to the Frey family. Frey spent several years as an Orioles scout and roving hitting instructor. He was 88 years old. Nominate your top brews here , Ohio Supreme Court to decide if at-home workers eligible for tax refund. He ended 1950 with a .325 batting average, his throws from right field to the infield were so strong and accurate that the team even tried him out as a reliever. May the God of tender mercies comfort each of you during this difficult time. Jim Frey was the former manager of the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals. Frey had the winning hit in the 1947 championship game. He is survived by : his close friend Deborah Gardner of Boscobel; his sons, Chris Frey of Boscobel and Luke Frey (Sarah) of Boscobel; his grandchildren, Franky, Rugar and Cinch Frey; and his siblings, Dennis Frey (Mary) of Nevada, John Frey of Wyoming, Shan Kramer (Mark) of Green Lake, WI, Patricia Williams (Jessie) of California and Robert Frey (Julie) of Boscobel. It was the first time he failed to top .300 in the minors, and the Braves sent him to Class-B Evansville. Take care bye. He also cracked 11 home runs in 1954, which was more than hed hit in his entire professional career to that point. Jim may have loved the game of basketball but more than that, he loved using basketball as a tool to teach kids about life and the importance of education. MAKE A DONATION. Former Cubs skipper Jim Frey, who managed the team from 1984 to 1986 and led them to their first division title and first postseason appearance since the 1945 World Series, died Sunday at 88. Add a Message. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. To leave a condolence message, add photos, or add videos, please provide your name and email address, 11802 99 Avenue The idea is to use everybodys talents in contributing to the overall team success. However, even a casual observer would see the deep respect, love, and warmth in their marriage that endured all highs, lows, and in between. Not sure what to say? He loved to travel the world to experience other cultures, and was always considering future destinations. It was as high as he would get, however. I read about all the friends Jim and family had in Tampa FL area. He is united and dancing. CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT CANDLES HAVE BEEN LIT, We are reviewing your submission. JIM FREY OBITUARY Jim Frey was the former manager of the Chicago Cubs and Kansas City Royals. Though Frey retired from baseball after more than 40 years in the game, he became involved in the formation of the Somerset Patriots, a team in the Atlantic League, in 1996. When the Cubs beat the San Diego Padres in the first two games of the League Championship, it looked like the Cubs would break the infamous Billy Goat curse. Phone: (780) 830-7742. Mike Bielecki, product of a trade with Pittsburgh, won 18 games. Bridget and I are here for you Carol if you need anything. Princeton avenges two losses to top-ranked Mason in regional semis, Ready to Bockfest? There is no photo or video of James A. Frey.Be the first to share a memory to pay tribute. In 1958, he moved to the St. Louis organization. They were married for 15 years, and together raised Dellas daughter, Mackenzie. Aside from closer Lee Smith, Frey didnt inherit much. During the clubhouse celebration following the division-clinching in Pittsburgh, Frey declared, "The monkey's off our back! Following in his fathers footsteps, he pursued a career in plumbing and pipefitting as a loyal member of Austins Plumbing and Pipefitters Local 286. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. I can just sit here like the 35,000 Cub fans here at Wrigley Field hoping that the result will be good. Frey was a little blunt about his playing career. If I had to scout myself, I really couldnt fall in love with me, he said in a 1969 interview. The abrupt departures of Patrick Kane and others in recent days have not only stripped the roster of its best talent but have also emotionally and psychologically affected those who remain. Former Cubs manager and GM Jim Frey has died at age 88. Sandberg kept in touch with Frey for as long as he could. Echovita offers a solidarity program that gives back the funds generated to families. When he found out we were from Cleveland that made us instant friends. Receive obituaries from the city or cities of your choice. To Carol, Jim Jr, and the whole Frey family. If you enjoy reading this website and wish to support RIP Baseball, please visit our Support page. Grande Prairie, AB T8W 0C7 Former Cubs pitcher Rick Sutcliffe, the 1984 NL Cy Young Award winner, recalled Frey and Zimmer rivaling any comedy team ever. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. 14, 2020. Send a note, share a story or upload a photo. JAMES FREY OBITUARY James A. Frey Crown Point, IN James A. Frey, age 73, of Crown Point, IN, passed away Friday, May 4, 2007. James often reflected that he knew he had to marry her if he was going to get her to Austin. To plant trees in memory, please visit the. Survived by three sons, Steven J. Frey, Michael W. Frey (Charlotte Hertler), and Eric A Frey (Susan Frey). The childhood thing is kind of a nice romantic story, Frey said, but it doesnt have a heckuva lot to do with hiring somebody to manage a ballclub. Wow I am so saddened to hear the passing of jim he was not only a great neighbor but a super nice guy who never minded telling u how he felt. I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one, who will be remembered for his contribution to baseball history and being a great athlete. He was given a difficult assignment. The Associated Press contributed to this report. I will miss my dear Buckeye friend and our driveway talks about life, work, current affairs, and the Buckeyes. Meet 283, the new 513. Write your message of sympathy today. With the American League down 5-4 in the 9th inning, Frey ran out of position players and had to send pitcher Dave Stieb to the plate to hit against closer Bruce Sutter of the Cardinals. He attended Western Hills High School in Cincinnati, where he was teammates with another future baseball lifer, Don Zimmer. 14, 2020. The Cubs returned to the National League Championship Series in 1989 with Don Zimmer, Freys lifelong friend and his Cubs bench coach, as manager. Guest Book Not sure. The Hawks barely avoided being shut out in a 4-1 defeat Tuesday. They see the ball so well and their coordination is so good, they dont have to worry as much as the rest of us. After spending the first half of 54 hitting over .340, Frey earned another All-Star selection. The Mets manager, George Bamberger, was an old friend of Freys and a fellow coach on the Orioles. Frey continued to hit for a high average wherever he went in the Braves organization. Free agent signee George Bell hit 25 homers in 1991, but new pitchers Danny Jackson and Dave Smith were awful. Former Cubs manager and GM Jim Frey dies at 88, Cubs move up Wednesday game time vs. Rays due to rain in forecast, What switch hitter Ian Happs right-handed rhythm means for the Cubs, Cubs Jed Hoyer, David Ross remember Jake Arrietas legacy after he announces retirement, Cubs Keegan Thompson plays extremely valuable role in Cubs bullpen, win vs. Rays, Cubs Patrick Wisdom, Frank Schwindel face an uphill climb, Cubs Seiya Suzuki, turning heads to start MLB career, named NL Player of the Week, Lightfoot is out, Vallas and Johnson are in the April runoff, No major damage reported as tornadoes briefly touch down in Joliet, Naperville, Progressive leaders can blame themselves if Garcia or Johnson fail to make mayoral runoff, Blackhawks trade Patrick Kane to Rangers in era-ending move, Oscar predictions: Signs point to Everything turning to gold. Jim and family were our next door neighbors . Jackson and Smith flopped in their roles in 1991, and Zimmer was fired apparently on orders from Tribune Co. CEO Donald Grenesko, in May 1991. OBITUARY James Clifford Frey May 18, 1937 - August 17, 2022 IN THE CARE OF Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home Austin lost an original on August 17, 2022 with the passing of James Clifford Frey. He led the Texas League in hitting (.336), runs (102), hits (198) and doubles (50) and won the Most Valuable Player Award. From November 1987 through the end of the 1991 season, Frey was the Cubs' general manager. In 1980, Frey led the Kansas City Royals of Major League Baseball (MLB) to their first American League (AL) championship, in his first year with the team. For full obituary and coverage from Legacy.com, click here. He was the second of five children, born to Ella Mae and James Will Fraser. Frey was living in Baltimore. When injuries hit the teams outfield, Frey brought up AAA outfielder Dwight Smith, who had a career year and finished second in the ROY voting. [1] In the World Series, they lost to the Philadelphia Phillies, who won their first World Series championship. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. After separating, Jim and Della also remained lifelong friends. Well, it looked down the middle to me, Aaron would reply. Jim immediately embraced our older son, a fellow journeyman lineman, sharing stories and their fascination with old insulators. He was a very, very funny guy, and a lot of people didnt see that side of him., Frey was born in Cleveland and grew up in Cincinnati, where he played American Legion and high school ball with Zimmer. We invite you to share condolences for Jim Frey in our Guest Book. The Cubs had finished last place in back-to-back seasons, and Frey said his first priority was to bring in a new manager. JIM FREY OBITUARY. FAREWELL , TO A LONG-TIME LEGENDARY CHICAGO CUBS MANAGER BROTHER !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! James was an excellent shrimp boat captain when he listened to Zella. View all posts by Sam Gazdziak. Published by The Oregonian on Apr. Read Full Obituary. The family will greet friends Monday from 4-7 pm at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs. Jim joined the U.S. Navy and served as an aircraft mechanic out of Norfolk . Per the Chicago Tribune, Frey devised a drill that Sandberg used to work on his power during the second half of spring training. Youd be hard-pressed to go out and find a more experienced, qualified person with the same amount of enthusiasm.. Freys special assignment was to work with young sensation Darryl Strawberry, the eventual 1983 Rookie of the Year. Jim was raised in Chicago, IL. but thats what I loved about him the most I hope ur resting easy today buddy lots of prayers for carol and the family. 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